August 23, 2017 AT 3:00 am

This Is What Happens When 3d Printing Goes Rogue #WearableWednesday #wearabletech #3dprinting #art

One day a friend demonstrated the 3Doodler, that funky 3D printing device that allows you to make freehand sculptures. After some rounds of what looked like spinning cotton candy, he handed me a wispy hot pink earring. It was exciting to watch and he did warn that it was not easy to master, so I was not in a hurry to get the tool. However, catching this post on The Beauty Bitch Blog about a new technique got me re-invigorated. Eden Saadon, artist/designer, uses the Doodler to create lacy shapes on tulle fabric. It’s a lot like witnessing someone doing lead work for glass windows, tracing intricate patterns that allow light to pass through. The fabric adds stability and also makes the images appear to float. It really is spectacular.

Eden also adds Swarovski crystals as embellishments, which results in pieces that look perfect for goth masquerades. Her work ranges from ethereal gowns to cob-webbed faerie coverings and after-midnight baby-dolls. I can see this technique being used for elaborate costumes for both sci-fi and fantasy movies or cosplay. It can resemble embroidery, macrame or even an alien spine. 3D digital printing certainly allows for repetition and precision, but there is something about this free hand style that flows. It reminds me of Japanese Sumi-E painting, and I’m sure it would also be attractive as decoration on paper or lampshades.

It has been a while since I checked out the 3Doodler, but it appears they have three different models—a basic, a mid-range and a pro version. Interestingly the pro-version can handle more unusual materials like wood, polycarbonate, nylon, bronze, and copper. For people that enjoy the feeling of crafting, this is an exciting way to explore 3D. Sending big thanks to The Beauty Bitch Blog for this great intro to an artist I might have otherwise missed. The tools change, but the desire for wearable art continues.